knee problem!

[Sarah6]

Hi my friends horse broke his knee or had prob, had 2 have an op back quite a few years ago, healed fine, back in work etc. had farrier out last week, now 15yrs old x racer, has got fluid bulging out front of knee and again couple inches above knee, bares weight on leg but cannot fully flex or extend, on and off lame, ny ideas?? obv @ his age & history dont think they'll want 2 b spending 2 much if another op is the only answer!
thanx xx

 

[fatpiggy]

Arthritis probably. My mare came in with a very swollen left knee a couple of years ago, wasn't lame but it has never really gone down much (I assume she tripped and fell on it) and as her right knee is all lumpy and bumpy with arthritis too...

 

[tigger01]

I know the feeling - have an ex eventer with two very odd shaped knees but he isnt lame and no matter how much the vets want to investigate and drain and poke and prod I am very sure I dont want them to. He hit his knees on a fence but it doesnt seem to bother him. When it does I will then have further investigations. His go down with plenty of exercise, Cortaflex (or similar) and the hard ground defo doesnt help the swelling.